Guide To Camping On A Budget

Camping is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in nature and create lasting memories without breaking the bank.

Camping is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in nature and create lasting memories without breaking the bank.

When it comes to camping on a budget, there are several key aspects to consider. In this guide, we’ll explore tips and tricks for planning a budget-friendly camping trip, including how to choose an affordable location, camping gear essentials, and the best money-saving ways to enjoy a camping trip.

Let’s dig in and find out how you can take advantage of the wonderful outdoors without breaking the bank!

Choose an affordable location to camp

Before setting off on your camping adventure, invest some time in thorough research. Look for campsites that offer affordable rates or even free camping options—saving money while camping begins when choosing your campsite. 

We recommend doing plenty of research into the area you want to camp. For example, check and compare the actual price of the campsite. Some are cheaper than others and some are even free! This naturally depends on whereabouts you want to camp. 

It’s also important to look into the price of the local amenities. Are there any budget-friendly shops nearby? A quick Google search, and you should have a list of local shops if needed.

Camping tip: camp off-season! 

You can plan your trip during off-peak seasons when prices are generally lower.

Cheap activities to do while camping

Many camping destinations offer hiking trails, swimming spots, and wildlife viewing opportunities that don’t require additional fees. Research the area beforehand to discover these hidden treasures and plan your itinerary accordingly.

As well as free hikes and walks, there are lots of activities you can enjoy that are free or very cheap. 

Low-cost camping activities include:

  • Pebble painting
  • Picnic at the beach
  • Make a treasure hunt
  • Wild swimming

There are lots more too! We have a full list of great activities to enjoy while camping in a handy guide. Read The Ultimate Guide to Camping Activities today. Some are cheaper than others, and the activities you decide to do can vary depending on budget – but all are fun!

Meal preparation

Taking non-perishable food items, such as canned goods and dry snacks, can help you cut down on costs. Plan your meals in advance and pack the ingredients bought from low-cost shops. 

If you’re keen to discover recipes to prep for before you go camping, of course, we have them for you! Read our Vegetarian Campfire Recipes and 5 Recipes For The Great Outdoors.

You may need a camping stove for the recipes above!

Take your own water

Buying water while away on your trip can end up costing you. Take bottles of water from your tap at home. This should eliminate daily water costs and it’s better for the environment too. 

Invest in your camping equipment for the future

Purchasing camping equipment that you know is good quality will help save you money in the long run. Especially if you and your family enjoy camping annually, you don’t want to buy the same equipment yearly. 

Investing your money in camping equipment may feel expensive at first, but the gear will last you so long you’ll reap the benefits when you don’t need to replace it so often. Luckily we supply camping gear for all budgets. 

We highly recommend checking out our camping equipment range. 

Look after your camping gear

If you are investing in new camping equipment, make sure you look after it. Keep everything clean and maintained over your trip to make sure it’s suitable for next year’s weekend away.

Packing for a camping trip

Packing efficiently is key to camping on a budget. A well-thought-out camping checklist will ensure that you don’t forget any essentials. If you were to forget something important, you may need to spend more while you’re away.

See The Essential Camping Checklist.

Take some home comforts 

When you go through the above checklist, ask yourself, what can you take from home? You may have lots of the supplies you need for your weekend away already, this means you won’t need to go out shopping.

Avoid tourist locations

We have noticed that often areas with high levels of tourist attractions and lots of holidaymakers tend to be more expensive than the quieter locations. Again, this requires more research but will be totally worth it if it means saving money.

Camp as a team

If you camp as a group, either with family or friends, you can share split the costs. Decide as a team before going who buys what from the checklist. You can share the equipment and still enjoy the benefits. 

Discover the best camping gear and advice with Winfields

We are your outdoor adventurer experts with years of experience providing campers advice and the correct equipment to have the best and safest camping trips.

We provide the very best clothing for outdoor activities right here on our site. Check out our outdoor activewear and hiking attire today. 

Read our helpful Outdoor Blog for all the camping tips needed. 

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